When your architect delivers construction drawings, it can feel overwhelming—lots of technical lines, symbols, and notes you may not fully understand. But as a client, you don’t need to interpret every detail like a professional. Instead, focus on the key elements that directly affect your budget, comfort, functionality, and vision.

1. Floor Plans

The floor plan shows the layout of rooms, walls, doors, and windows from a bird’s-eye view.

What to check:

• Room Sizes: Do they match your expectations and lifestyle needs?

• Flow & Circulation: Is it easy to move from one space to another?

• Furniture Fit: Will your existing or planned furniture work in the space?

2. Elevations (Front, Side, Rear Views)

Elevations show what the building looks like from the outside.

What to check:

• Window & Door Placement: Do they look balanced and provide enough natural light?

• Exterior Finishes: Are the materials (brick, glass, stone, paint) what you envisioned?

• Roof Design: Is the slope, shape, or height in line with your preference?

3. Sections (Cut-Through Views)

Sections slice through the building to show heights, levels, and relationships between floors.

What to check:

• Ceiling Heights: Do they feel comfortable and spacious enough?

• Staircases: Are they safe, accessible, and easy to use?

• Double-Height Spaces: If included, do they create the effect you imagined?

4. Doors & Windows Schedule

A schedule is a detailed list of sizes and types of openings.

What to check:

• Sizes: Are windows large enough for ventilation and views?

• Style: Does the type of door/window fit your design taste?

• Security & Privacy: Are sensitive areas (like bathrooms/bedrooms) well-considered?

5. Structural Elements

These show how the building stands up—beams, columns, foundations.

What to check (with your architect’s guidance):

• Impact on Space: Are any columns or beams intruding into usable areas?

• Flexibility: Will structural choices allow for future changes if needed?

6. Electrical & Lighting Plans

These indicate where switches, outlets, and fixtures are placed.

What to check:

• Convenience: Are switches located where you’d naturally reach for them?

• Outlets: Enough sockets in living areas, bedrooms, and kitchen?

• Lighting Mood: Are accent lights or task lights planned for your lifestyle?

7. Plumbing & Mechanical Plans

This includes pipes, fixtures, and systems like HVAC (air conditioning).

What to check:

• Bathroom & Kitchen Layouts: Are sinks, showers, and appliances positioned logically?

• Maintenance Access: Can systems be easily serviced later?

• Noise & Comfort: Are noisy mechanical units placed away from bedrooms?

8. Finishing Details

These are notes about materials, floor finishes, wall treatments, and ceilings.

What to check:

• Material Quality: Are they within your budget and style?

• Durability: Do finishes suit your lifestyle (kids, pets, heavy use)?

• Aesthetics: Does it reflect the look you want for your home?

Final Tip

Don’t worry if you don’t understand everything, that’s why you hired an architect. Your role is to make sure the design matches your vision, comfort, and budget. Always ask your architect to walk you through the drawings and explain them in simple terms.